An overly melodramatic film that tries too hard.

Rating: Null/10 (13 November 1999)

While the basic idea is thought-provoking, the film simply didn't convince me. I wanted things to be less perfect, like the seasick piano scene - why not have them smash into a few walls for humor and added believability? Also, why were there no interesting anecdotes about how 1900 managed to stay on the ship his whole life? It was too brushed-over, I felt. And if Tim Roth was really in love with the land girl, why go through all of that if he's just gonna stay on the boat? What was the point?!! I think Tornatore put a little too much faith into the concept without developing it into a cooler, more believable tale. It's not the worst movie I've ever seen. I enjoyed the piano duel scene but that was about it. I think the hokiness that I felt can best be summed up when Pruitt Taylor Vince's character says, "I never forgot 1900..." Of course not, he's been the focus of your narration for the past 3/4's of the film!!! That's my two cents. Take it or leave it.